Trump, Duffy Unveil Sweeping ATC Modernization Plan

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, with the backing of President Trump, has announced a sweeping, multi-billion-dollar plan to modernize the U.S. air traffic control (ATC) system by 2028. The proposal was prompted by deadly crashes and recent outages, including a blackout at Newark Airport, and calls for replacing outdated radars and communications technology, constructing six new ATC centers, and upgrading over 4,600 facilities with modern telecommunications. The initiative has received rare bipartisan and industry support, with airline CEOs and congressional leaders urging quick action due to significant safety risks. While initial congressional estimates put the cost at $12.5 billion, industry groups are requesting at least $18.5 billion more in emergency funding, all to be provided upfront. The Trump administration has stressed the urgency of the overhaul to prevent further tragedies and highlighted the need for unity and expedited permitting. If fully funded, officials believe the plan could finally resolve long-standing deficiencies in the nation's ATC infrastructure.